Srinagar, Dec 29 : National Conference leader and Rajya Sabha member Chaudhary Muhammad Ramzan on Monday said that Aga Ruhullah Mehdi’s comments reflect a different approach to issues, not opposition to the National Conference, and said they continue to meet regularly during Parliament sessions.
Speaking to Kashmir News Service (KNS), Ramzan said internal debate should not be seen as disloyalty. “Aga and the Chief Minister have different approaches to solving issues,” he said. “This difference in method does not mean he is against the National Conference. If he were against the party, he would have resigned.”
He added that they often discuss parliamentary issues together. “We meet in Parliament and share ideas almost every day. He is a young leader with passion. He has to play a long political innings. May Allah give him health and help him fulfil his aspirations”, he said.
On administrative powers in the Union Territory, Ramzan said the elected government still does not have full authority. He added that most powers remain with the Lieutenant Governor’s (LG) office, and that clear business rules are needed to define the roles of the LG, the cabinet, and elected representatives.
“We raised this issue in Parliament, asking what was the purpose of elections if the elected government and MLAs still don’t have powers,” he said.
Responding to questions about CM Omar praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Ramzan said the Prime Minister’s position naturally invites respect.
Ramzan said that the elected government received a strong mandate, but full powers promised after delimitation are yet to be restored. “Delimitation has happened, elections were held, but statehood has not been restored yet. This is our biggest priority,” he said.
On the issue of violence and attacks on Kashmiri residents outside the UT, Ramzan condemned mistreatment of J&K youth and workers. He said the Home Minister has instructed all state administrations to ensure fair and respectful treatment of people from Jammu and Kashmir, and that action has already begun against those involved in violence.
Talking about J&K prisoners lodged outside the UT, Ramzan said many are held in minor cases without proper facilities. He said the Home Minister assured legal assistance, medical support, and family access for such prisoners.
Regarding reservation, Ramzan said his party supports it and had included it in their manifesto. He said a Cabinet Sub-Committee submitted its report under Supreme Court guidelines. “The UT cabinet approved it and sent it to the LG. Once signed, reservation will be implemented,” he said.(KNS)
